2009 GMC Savana 2500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 is its four-trim lineup: Base, Extended, LS, and LT joined for this model year. Otherwise, the van’s powertrain, styling, safety equipment, technology, and structure carried over without major updates.
About the 2009 GMC Savana 2500
1st generation full-size Savana/Express platform, 14th model year; after the 2008 interior/safety update and before the 2010 transmission and axle update.
GMC positioned the Savana 2500 as a traditional full-size van for real work: either a two-seat cargo van for tools and equipment or a large passenger van for moving groups. Its core appeal was simple durability, strong V8 power, heavy-duty 2500 capability, and standard stability control on passenger models. Compared with newer European-style vans, the Savana offered a more straightforward, truck-like approach with familiar mechanicals, multiple lengths, and a reputation as a dependable workhorse.
The Base and Extended versions are work-focused, rear-wheel-drive cargo vans with two seats, heavy-duty 2500 chassis hardware, and regular- or extended-length cargo areas. The LS and LT are 12-passenger vans with a 6.0-liter V8; the LT adds comfort features such as rear air conditioning, power windows, and upgraded cloth front seats.
What changed, by category
2009 GMC Savana 2500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6L | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel |
| Horsepower | 319 hp | 319 hp | 250–319 hp | 250–319 hp |
| Torque | 367 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 294–460 lb-ft | 294–460 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7800 lb | 7800 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 217.3 cu-ft | 217.3 cu-ft | 267.3 cu-ft | 316.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | ||
| Seats | 12 | 12 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Stability Control | ||||
| Traction Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 a major update over the 2008 model?
No. The 2009 Savana 2500 has a four-trim lineup of Base, Extended, LS, and LT, but its underlying powertrain, styling, safety equipment, technology, and structure received no major updates.
Which 2009 GMC Savana 2500 versions are cargo vans?
The Base and Extended versions are cargo vans. Both have two-seat interiors and rear-wheel drive, while the Extended version uses a longer 155-inch wheelbase and provides more cargo room.
Which 2009 GMC Savana 2500 versions carry passengers?
The LS and LT are 12-passenger versions powered by a 6.0-liter V8. The LS emphasizes basic group transportation, while the LT adds rear air conditioning, power windows, upgraded cloth front seats, and chrome exterior trim.
Did the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 receive a new transmission?
No. The broader six-speed automatic transmission update arrived for 2010, so 2009 retained the previous powertrain setup without a significant standard change.
Did safety equipment change on the 2009 GMC Savana 2500?
No. There was no new standard safety-system change for 2009. The LS passenger van retained stability control and head-curtain side-impact airbags associated with the earlier passenger-van safety update.